Firebacks

Manufactured in the London area

  1. 319

    christies,_london,_15_dec_2017,_lot_12_thomas_elsley_780x660.jpg
    780 x 660 mm
    Image subject to copyright

    Description: Arched rectangular shape; cyma-reversa edging; Tudor royal shield, garter, crown, motto and supporters (crowned lion and dragon); Tudor rose to right of lion’s head, portcullis to left of dragon’s head; temp. Elizabeth I.

    Notes: This a replica cast from a modern pattern by Thomas Elsley Ltd. of London in imitation of a Tudor original.

    Copies of this fireback are known.

    Inscription: [Garter] HONI SOIT QVI MAL Y PENSE / [motto] DIEV ET MON DROIT.

    Arms: Tudor royal - Elizabeth I

    Manufactured: in the late 19th to early 20th century at Portland Metal Works, Great Titchfield Street in the London area of England.

    Current location: not known.

  2. 1117

    isleworth,_london road, 02.jpg
    305 x 530 mm

    Description: Arched rectangular shaped central panel, bead edging, narrow-necked urn with swagged decoration and gadrooned base, flowers issuing therefrom; arched rectangular shaped border with fillet edging and symmetrical floral festoons; on top, mirrored plant fronds descending from a small mask; at the bottom, an indistinct cartouche and a probable letter 'W' between swirled foliage.

    Notes: Small firebacks of this type and period might have been cast at one of the London foundries and used for attaching to the rear of dog grates. The initial 'W' probably denotes the pattern maker.

    Inscription: W

    Manufactured: in the late 17th to early 18th century possibly in the London area of England.

    Current location: in private hands, Isleworth, London, England.